FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Urban Archery Deer Hunt Program Hits Major Milestone

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - On Oct. 5, the City of Morgantown’s Urban Archery Deer Hunt Program surpassed the 10,000-pound mark of ground venison donated to local food pantries.

“We knew that there was a deer population problem and that there wasn’t a solution,” said former Urban Deer Hunt Volunteer Coordinator Rick Bebout. “We thought that we could turn that around and create a resource for the citizens of Morgantown. Our program has helped numerous non-profit organizations and we hope to help more in the future.”

One recipient of donated meat is the Community Kitchen, Inc. located at 247 Willey Street. Established in 1984, the organization has made it a mission to provide well-balanced, hot meals five days a week while providing a safe and clean environment.

“While most residents may not realize it, the Urban Archery Deer Hunt has been a huge benefit to the Morgantown area,” said volunteer cook and board member of the Community Kitchen Richard Dumas. “Much of the meat harvested is processed and donated to local agencies that help alleviate some of the food insecurity that exists in our community. The recent donation of over 500 pounds of meat will enable us to continue to serve hot entrees to those in need.”

The Urban Archery Deer Hunt began in 2011 after being unanimously approved to help with the City’s widespread deer issues. An aerial infrared survey of the City limits earlier that spring showed that the population was well-above carrying capacity. Each year, the hunt runs from the first Saturday in September through Dec. 31 and the last two weeks of January. Since 2011, the group has donated harvested meat to various non-profit organizations around Morgantown that help feed the community.

For more information about how to participate in the Urban Deer Hunt or to learn more, please visit morgantownwv.gov/urban-deer or contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Paul Crumrine via email at pecrumrine@gmail.com.

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